In an incredible display of unity, more than 30 Punjabi artists from around the world performed a nine-hour virtual concert on Sunday, May 17, in support of William Osler Health System Foundation’s (Osler Foundation) Health Care Heroes campaign, which aims to raise $2.5 million for William Osler Health System (Osler) and the fight against COVID-19.

The Virtual Concert Fundraiser was hosted by 5aab TV and raised $212,000 for Osler. The Sikh doctrine of “Sarbat da bhala”, which means “blessings for everyone”, was displayed by the community as they donated and surpassed the fundraising goal of $100,000 within the first two hours of the concert, with more than 20 artists still to perform. 

“We are grateful to the Sikh community, volunteers and all Punjabi artists who performed through Skype and urged viewers to pitch in for this noble cause,” says Jassi Sarai, President of 5aab TV.

“All the artists and volunteers on my team worked so hard to make this historic achievement a reality, for the Sikh Community and our channel,” says Prince Sandhu, Vice President of 5aab TV.

Harpreet Singh Hansra organized the fundraiser and admits to some nerves before the event. “As I was putting together the fundraiser, I had butterflies in my stomach about the ability of people to donate due to the economic hardship COVID-19 has created,” he says. “But as the concert kicked off, our goal was met very soon, so we increased the goal to $200,000 which was also met by the end of the concert.”

Martha Rogers, Chair of The Rogers Foundation is currently matching donations to the Health Care Heroes campaign, bringing the total raised for Osler Foundation to $424,000.
“Osler’s health care heroes are working tirelessly at the frontlines to keep our patients and families safe and healthy in the midst of this crisis. It means a lot to our physicians, staff and volunteers to have the support of the community behind them during these trying times,” says Dr. Naveed Mohammad, President and CEO, William Osler Health System.

“A huge thank you to 5aab TV for their incredible efforts to mobilize the community around our hospitals and for putting on an incredible show for all of the viewers that tuned in,” says Ken Mayhew, President & CEO, Osler Foundation. “We are humbled and thankful for the support of those in our community who gave so generously to help our front line workers in the fight against COVID-19.”

Ways to help